IUCN Med supports regional collaboration on biodiversity and fisheries monitoring at the CORMON Meeting in Athens

The IUCN Centre for Mediterranean Cooperation (IUCN Med) participated in the Meeting of the Ecosystem Approach Correspondence Group on Monitoring (CORMON) Biodiversity and Fisheries, held in Athens on 7–8 April 2025. Convened by UNEP/MAP-SPA/RAC, the meeting brought together national experts and regional organizations to review progress and discuss updates on biodiversity and fisheries monitoring efforts in the Mediterranean.  

A key contribution from IUCN Med was the submission of a technical document with partial funding from the Monk Seal Alliance and the Ministerio para la Transición Ecológica y el Reto Demográfico (MITECO), focused on the Mediterranean monk seal. This species is one of the most endangered marine mammals globally, and the document offers updated data and methodological guidance to support region-wide monitoring. Its inclusion in the CORMON process strengthens the integration of species-specific considerations into regional monitoring strategies.  

UNEP/MAP - SPA/RAC

Meeting of the Ecosystem Approach Correspondence Group on Monitoring (CORMON) Biodiversity and Fisheries for the biennium 2024-2025 in Athens, on 7 and 8 April 2025. 

As part of its work on species conservation, IUCN is also monitoring non-commercial fish species through its IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The Centre welcomed the proposal by WWF Mediterranean to improve data on population trends for these lesser-known but ecologically important species, and expressed interest in supporting complementary efforts that contribute to filling current knowledge gaps

IUCN also recommended considering the measurement of total habitat coverage during each monitoring cycle, with an emphasis on calculating net changes—that is, both habitat losses and gains. Since monitoring sites often span areas with varying levels of human impact, this approach could help detect early signs of habitat recovery, especially in locations under protection or undergoing restoration. The meeting acknowledged this contribution and recommended that future monitoring efforts incorporate IUCN’s proposal to assess net changes in habitat extent, as a way to reflect the potential success of habitat restoration initiatives.  

Through its participation, IUCN Med continues to support the development of harmonized, science-based approaches for understanding and conserving marine biodiversity in the Mediterranean. The Centre remains committed to fostering collaboration and data sharing as essential steps toward a more resilient and sustainably managed marine environment.